Historic district with two 12th-century canals — Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese. Former Milan port, part of hydraulic system designed with Leonardo da Vinci's input. Today — bohemian quarter with bars, restaurants, vintage shops, and galleries. Center of Milanese aperitivo and nightlife.
Free — public district. Restaurants and bars at your own expense. Aperitivo buffets €8-15 with drink. Boat tours available from €12.
Metro M2 (green) to Porta Genova. Exit — 5 min to canals. Tram 2 or buses 91, 98. Walking from Duomo — 30-40 min pleasant stroll.
District accessible 24/7. Bars and restaurants typically 12:00-2:00 AM. Aperitivo 18:00-21:00. Shops 10:00-19:30.
faq.subtitle Navigli District (Canals)
Aperitivo is Milan tradition: evening drink (Spritz, Negroni, Campari) with free snack buffet. Starts around 6 PM. Navigli is the best place! Try: Mag Cafe, Rita, Cuore. Cost €8-15 for drink with buffet.
Morning — peaceful, good for photos. From 6 PM aperitivo starts, gets lively. After 9 PM — nightlife. Last Sunday of month — 2km flea market along canal. At sunset — most beautiful views.
Useful tips for visiting Navigli District (Canals)
Last Sunday of month — antique market (Mercatone dell'Antiquariato) stretches 2km along Naviglio Grande. Vintage, retro, collectibles. Come morning for best selection!
Vicolo dei Lavandai — historic 18th-century washhouse. Wooden boards and stone basins preserved to this day. Atmospheric photo spot.
Waterside restaurants: 28 Posti (no-waste cuisine), Ponte Rosso (traditional), El Brellin (in old washhouse). Book evening tables in advance!
District is flat, perfect for walking. Can rent a bike (BikeMi) and cycle along canals to suburbs.
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